CN107427702B - Information display indicator integrated with framework - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to information display indicator devices of the type that may be used with masks having a transparent viewing area, such as SCBAs. For example, such display indicator embodiments may be generally integrated into the frame of the mask viewport so as to be located near the outside of the viewport perimeter. Further, in some embodiments, at least one of the display indicators may have two faces, one of which faces obliquely inward and one of which faces obliquely outward. By having two faces for such an indicator, the user and the external team member can be notified simultaneously by the indicator.

Description

Information display indicator integrated with framework

Cross Reference to Related Applications

None.

Statement regarding federally sponsored research or development

Not applicable.

Reference to microfilm

Not applicable.

Technical Field

Embodiments of the present invention may generally relate to an apparatus and/or method for displaying information to a user wearing a mask, such as an SCBA mask.

Background

Traditionally, relevant information may be displayed in an SCBA mask using a Heads Up Display (HUD) unit mounted inside the mask. While such conventional HUD units may allow the wearer of the mask to view information, such conventional HUD units typically have disadvantages. For example, the HUD display unit may often be made to fit fairly loosely with the internal components of the mask, creating a HUD that may not be stable during strenuous exercise (complicating the user's reading of the HUD) and may even become detached inside the mask (which may pose a safety risk to the user). Furthermore, the internal HUD unit, with its separate battery, will occupy significant space inside the already confined space inside the mask. This can cause problems with the fit, comfort and breathability of masks using such conventional internal HUD units. Additionally, internally mounted HUD units often block a portion of the user's view through the viewing area of the mask, thereby limiting the mask's field of view. Because such masks are typically used in emergency situations, ensuring adequate visibility can be an important safety issue. Furthermore, the internal HUD unit can make it difficult for the user to correctly observe, given the angle and small distance to the user/wearer's eyes. The disclosed embodiments relate to an information display indicator integrated with a framework that may address one or more of these issues. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments may allow for an improved mask (e.g., an SCBA mask) with the ability to better display information to the mask wearer.

Drawings

For a more complete understanding of this disclosure, reference is now made to the following brief description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and detailed description, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective front view of an exemplary embodiment of a mask having a plurality of display indicators integrated into the frame of the mask viewport;

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows an alternative side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 (e.g., a side view opposite to the side shown in FIG. 4);

FIG. 6 shows a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 shows a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 shows an exploded view of an exemplary mask embodiment similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1;

fig. 9-17 show perspective front views of exemplary mask embodiments similar to the embodiment of fig. 1, with information display indicators located at different locations around the periphery of the viewport.

Detailed Description

First, it should be appreciated that while illustrative implementations of one or more embodiments are described below, the disclosed systems and methods may be implemented using any number of technologies, whether currently known or not yet existing. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the illustrative embodiments, drawings, and techniques illustrated below, but may be modified within the scope of the appended claims along with their full scope of equivalents.

The following brief definitions of terms shall apply throughout the application:

the term "comprising" means "including but not limited to", and should be interpreted in the manner normally employed in the context of this patent;

the phrases "in one embodiment," "according to one embodiment," and the like generally indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the phrase may be included in at least one embodiment of the invention, and may be included in more than one embodiment of the invention (importantly, such phrases are not necessarily directed to the same embodiment);

if the specification describes something as "exemplary" or as "an example," it is to be understood that this refers to a non-exclusive example;

the terms "about" or "approximately" or the like, when used with a number, may denote the particular number, or alternatively, as understood by those skilled in the art, may denote a range close to the particular number (e.g., +/-10%);

the terms "permanent" or "permanently" as used in connection with the terms "mount," "attach," and the like, mean securely attached in such a manner as to effectively withstand violent movement (so as not to become loosened or disengaged as a result of such violent movement), and/or require tools for removal (e.g., attachment by screws, glue, welding, or a hard locking mechanism);

the term "integrated" (e.g., with respect to the framework) shall include: is housed (at least partially) inside, and/or is mounted on … …, and/or is attached to; and is

If the specification states a component or feature "may," "should," "will," "preferably," "might," "typically," "optionally," "for example," "often," or "may" (or other such terminology) be included or have a certain characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have that characteristic. Such components or features may optionally be included in some embodiments, or may be excluded.

The disclosed embodiments may generally relate to an information display indicator apparatus of the type that may be used with a face mask (e.g., an SCBA face mask) having a transparent view port (operable to cover/protect the wearer's eyes, face, or head) with a frame around its perimeter. For example, such display indicator embodiments may be generally integrated into the frame of the mask viewport so as to be located near the perimeter of the viewport. Further, in some embodiments, at least one of the display indicators may have two faces, one of which is angled inwardly (e.g., toward the viewing area so as to be effectively viewable by the mask wearer when wearing the mask) and one of which is angled outwardly (e.g., to provide a person (e.g., a team member of the wearer) outside the mask with the ability to view such display indicator). By having two faces for such an indicator, both the user and the external team member can be notified simultaneously with the indicator. This option may allow team members to visually check each other, providing another fail-safe measure (security fail safe) to ensure that important information about the personal safety device is timely noticed and not inadvertently ignored.

Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments may generally relate to an information display indicator integrated into a frame that may be used with a mask in place of a conventional internal heads-up display (HUD) device. In general, a mask embodiment (operable to be worn by a person/user/wearer so as to cover at least the eyes) may comprise: a transparent viewport operable/configured to allow a wearer to see outside the mask (while wearing the mask), the transparent viewport having a frame positioned about a viewport perimeter; and one or more information display indicators, each information display indicator operable/configured to display information related to (a respective) personal safety device of the user (e.g., remaining air supply, or detected air pressure, heart rate, blood pressure) (e.g., to alert the user and/or provide a status of the personal safety device of the user); wherein: the viewport has a field of view; and one or more display indicators are integrated into the frame outside the viewport (or mounted on the frame) and located at or near the perimeter of the viewport field of view. In some embodiments, externally integrating/mounting one or more display indicators in the frame may result in minimal impact on the field of view of the viewport (e.g., the effective field of view may be reduced by 2%, 1.5%, or 1% or less, and/or the overlapping fields of view may be reduced by 2% or 1.5% or less).

In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more display indicators comprises two faces, with a first face sloping inwardly (toward the mask/viewport for viewing by the wearer of the mask) and a second face sloping outwardly (away from the mask for visibility by an external team member). Thus, at least one display indicator having two faces may be operable to illuminate to provide status updates such that illumination of each display indicator of the at least one display indicator having two faces (e.g., a double-sided indicator) will illuminate both faces simultaneously. In general, each of the at least one display indicator having two faces may include a single LED operable to illuminate the first face and the second face. In some embodiments, each display indicator may be a colored LED, and/or a LEC or other light source in combination with a colored (transparent) surface. Often, the one or more information display indicators may include a plurality of display indicators, each associated with different information about the personal safety device and each including a different colored light (e.g., an LED). By using different colors for each display indicator, the wearer is able to more quickly identify information/alerts/warnings.

The external integration/mounting of the one or more display indicators may provide a distance of at least 9 cm (or 9-12 cm or 9-10 cm in other embodiments) from the wearer's eyes (e.g., thereby providing an improved focal length for viewing by the wearer (as compared to internal mounting), an improved viewing angle (e.g., allowing the indicators to be more easily or clearly seen, or within the user's peripheral vision without requiring refocusing of the eyes), and/or reduced eye fatigue Or a radio communication system) share a battery and/or an electronic device (e.g., circuitry). In other words, some mask embodiments may also include a sound amplification system and/or a radio communication system, wherein the one or more display indicators share a battery and/or circuitry with the sound amplification system and/or the radio communication system (thereby saving weight). Further, the one or more display indicators may generally include wiring and circuitry, and the wiring and circuitry of the one or more display indicators may be located inside the frame.

Typically, the mask may be an SCBA full mask. Alternatively, however, the mask may be any eye protection device that covers at least the eyes of the user, including goggles, a mask or a hood, and has a field of view that operatively covers at least the wearer's eyes with the frame in the vicinity thereof. Generally, the mask will be of the kind used with other personal protective/safety devices (e.g., air supply (e.g., remaining air supply monitor/detector), digital air pressure gauge, air flow monitor, heart rate monitor, blood pressure monitor/detector, temperature monitor/detector, radio communication system status monitor, etc.), and the display indicator(s) will display an indication of such one or more personal protective/safety devices (e.g., regarding status). Further, the one or more display indicators will typically be waterproof, and the seal is positioned to prevent water from entering the frame where the one or more display indicators are integrated into the frame.

Of course, in some embodiments, the display indicator may be provided separate from the mask (e.g., for subsequent integration into or mounting on the mask). Such information display indicators (operatively mounted externally on the frame of the mask's transparent viewport) may include: an indicator light operable/configured to signal a status of the personal safety device with respect to a user of the mask; wherein the indicator light includes two faces, wherein a first face is angled inwardly toward the viewport (e.g., for efficient viewing by a mask wearer) and a second face is angled outwardly away from the viewport (so as to be visible by an external team member). The indicator light will often signal the status of the air supply to the mask (or other personal safety device of the mask user). The indicator light of some embodiments will be permanently/securely attached to the frame of the mask. Typically, the indicator lights will be integrated into the frame of the mask at a location near the perimeter of the viewport (e.g., so as not to significantly affect the view of the mask viewport). The indicator light will also often be operable/configured to share a battery and/or circuitry with the sound amplification system and/or the radio communication system (e.g., in a mask with an integrated sound amplification system and/or radio communication system). In general, the display indicator may also have at least one further indicator light, wherein each indicator light signals a different status of the user's personal safety device and each indicator light has a different color (thereby helping the user/wearer of the mask to be able to more quickly identify a particular type of information/warning). In the case of multiple indicator lights, they may be located in an array (e.g., grouped together, such as inside a single housing and perhaps sharing a single battery). In some cases, the array may have at least one indicator light having only a single face (e.g., inwardly angled), and at least one two-sided indicator light (with one inwardly angled and one outwardly angled). The display indicator embodiments described herein can be readily mounted/integrated into the frame of a mask, thereby forming other mask embodiments similar to those described above, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all such embodiments (including the methods inherent therein) are included within the present disclosure.

Fig. 1-8 illustrate an exemplary mask embodiment (with a transparent viewing area or protective cover) having an exemplary embodiment of an information display indicator integrated into a frame for the viewing area, thereby providing a detailed example disclosing several features of the above-described embodiments. In the embodiment of fig. 1-8, the mask 100 is an SCBA full mask that is operable to surround and seal against the entire face of a user (e.g., to provide a sealing area for air provided to the user's mouth and nose while also covering the user's eyes). Thus, the mask has a seal 102 about its periphery (e.g., in a position configured to be placed against the user's skin), and one or more straps or other securement elements (not shown) for sealingly attaching the mask 100 to the user's head/face (e.g., to hold the mask on the user's face/head with sufficient force so that the seal 102 engages the user's face/head to prevent outside air from the environment from entering the mask). As described above, the mask 100 also has a transparent viewing area 110 (e.g., a face shield) that is operable to allow a user (when wearing the mask) to see outside the mask 100. In the embodiment of fig. 1, the viewport 110 is substantially large relative to the overall size of the mask 100 (e.g., the viewport may occupy about 75% (or alternatively, between 70-80%) of the entire mask surface). Ideally, the viewing area 110 of the mask would not unduly restrict the wearer's field of view, as a good line of sight may be beneficial to the wearer (especially in emergency situations). Thus, for example, the mask viewport 110 may have an effective field of view of more than 50%, more than 51%, between 51 and 52%, or 51.75%, and an overlapping field of view of more than 70%, more than 72%, more than 74%, between 74% and 75%, or 74.2% (e.g., an overlapping field of view between the left and right eyes). The mask 100 of fig. 1 has a frame 105 near (e.g., at the outer edge of) the perimeter of the transparent viewing region 110 (and thus at the perimeter of the mask's field of view), the frame 105 being operable (or at least positioned) to securely (e.g., sealingly) attach/adhere the viewing region 110 to the main body of the mask 100 (e.g., including a seal and a securing means (e.g., a strap)). In other words, the frame 105 may function as a physical interface of the viewport 110 with the mask 100 body (and may, for example, operatively support the viewport 110).

The mask 100 of fig. 1 also includes an inlet 115 for supplied air, which may be supplied from a canister/jar carried by the user, an air hose (e.g., pumped from the outside, such as through a PAPR), or a filter (which filters air from the outside air environment). Typically, the SCBA mask 100 of FIG. 1 will use air provided from a tank/cylinder, and it may also optionally have a filter 117 (e.g., operatively providing a backup supply of air in the event that the primary provided air (e.g., from the tank/cylinder) is interrupted.) optionally, the mask 100 of FIG. 1 may also have a sound amplification system 118 (operatively allowing sound from a user inside the mask to be effectively transmitted outside the mask (e.g., at an amplified volume, which may allow the user to be heard from the outside, even when there is significant background noise, such as during an emergency)) and/or a radio communication system 119 (operatively allowing communication into and out of the mask, such as allowing team members to effectively communicate).

In the embodiment of fig. 1, a plurality of information display indicators 120 are integrated into the frame 105 of the mask's transparent viewport. More specifically, the display indicator 120 will typically be positioned near the perimeter of the viewport 110 and/or externally integrated to the frame 105 (e.g., external to the viewport and/or external to the mask). For example, the frame 105 may be outwardly convex at the location where the display indicator 120 is mounted, e.g., to allow the display indicator 120 to be received/wedged/held between the frame 105 and the transparent viewport 110 (and in some embodiments, the housing of the display indicator 120 may be in contact with the frame 105 on its outer surface and the viewport 110 on its inner surface). In the embodiment of fig. 1, multiple display indicators 120 may be located in an array 125 (e.g., where multiple indicator lights share a common housing and/or a common battery, thus multiple display indicators may be grouped together). In practice, the embodiment of FIG. 1 has two such arrays 125 of display indicators, one array located at the lower right portion of the frame and one array located at the lower left portion of the frame (although other locations for the display indicator(s) and/or array(s) would also be possible).

Each display indicator 120 will typically be associated with or connected to some of the personal protective equipment of the mask user so that the display indicator can provide information (e.g., status) about the corresponding personal protective/safety equipment. Thus, for example, an exemplary display indicator may be associated with a breathing air supply device (e.g., note that the air supply device is operating at a low speed). Indeed, in some embodiments, multiple display indicators 120 may be associated with the air supply device, for example with different display indicators displaying different levels of remaining air supply. Typically, each display indicator of the plurality of display indicators 120 will be operable to illuminate as a way of providing information to the mask wearer. For example, each display indicator 120 may include an LED that illuminates to signal/alert/notify the user about the corresponding personal protection/safety device. Also, each display indicator of the plurality of display indicators 120 (or at least each display indicator light of the display indicator lights in the single array 125) will often have a different color (such that each will emit light in a particular color, allowing the user to more quickly determine a particular problem with the personal safety device).

At least part of the display indicator 120 in fig. 1 will also have two faces, with the first face 127 sloping/facing inwardly towards the viewport 110 (and/or towards the mask wearer's eyes) and the second face 128 sloping/facing outwardly in a direction away from the viewport/mask, so as to be visible to a person outside the mask (e.g., to allow an external team member to view the display indicator). Such a dual-sided display indicator (having two sides, one oriented inward and one outward) may allow team members to check each other's status (e.g., regarding important information related to personal safety devices) so that the team members may receive notification and play a role in relying/backup support for each other by alerting the wearer of any relevant information (e.g., light-based display indicators). In fig. 1, such dual-sided display indicators would typically each have a single light emitting source/lamp (e.g., LED) and two sides (typically of the same color) so that both sides would be illuminated simultaneously (typically of the same color). Thus, each display indicator 120 may have a colored LED, or an LED with a colored surface (e.g., emitting white light). In fig. 1, each array 125 includes at least one two-sided display indicator, as well as at least one display indicator having only a single side (tilted/oriented/directed/oriented inward toward the viewing area and/or the wearer's eyes). Thus, some of the displayed indicators will only provide information to the wearer of the mask, while other displayed indicators will provide information to both the wearer and any external team members.

In the embodiment of fig. 1, one or more arrays 125 may share one or more batteries with other devices (e.g., devices in the mask). Thus, for example, the display indicator 120 may share a battery with the sound amplification system 118 and/or the radio communication system 119. This may allow for space and/or weight savings. The battery and/or circuitry/electronics/wiring of the one or more display indicators 120 will also typically be housed in the frame 105 (e.g., under the array of display indicators). Typically, the display indicators 120 will receive information/status about their respective personal protective/security devices in a manner similar to that employed by standard HUD units (e.g., via a wired connection or wirelessly). Thus, for example, the display indicator may be activated via a wireless connection to a signal generator on the corresponding personal safety device (e.g., a digital air pressure gauge) (while the battery and associated PCB/circuitry would typically be connected to the display indicator via wires typically located in the mask frame). Also, typically, the display indicators 120 will be permanently attached to the frame (e.g., with the housing of the array 125 of display indicators attached to the frame via screws 129). This secure attachment would provide a stable platform for viewing by the user and would also ensure that the display indicator 120 does not fall off during use (e.g., when the mask is undergoing vigorous movement). Typically, the display indicator 120 will be waterproof and will be integrated into the frame 105 in a waterproof manner (e.g., using a seal).

By mounting the display indicator 120 externally on the frame 105, the field of view of the mask viewport 110 will be affected only minimally, if at all, by the display indicator 120 (e.g., reducing the effective field of view by 1% or less, and/or reducing the overlapping field of view by 1.5% or less). This is in contrast to conventional HUDs located in masks, which generally have a more severe effect on the field of vision. Additionally, the external mounting of the display indicator 120 of the present invention may provide a better view (e.g., angle and distance) of the display indicator to the mask wearer while also reducing eye strain. For example, the display indicator 120 may be located at least 90 mm from the wearer's eye (but typically is located no more than 1 cm (or alternatively 2 or 3 cm) from the frame/viewport). This distance may work better at the user's innate focal length, thereby reducing eye strain. Further, the location and distance may allow the wearer to better see the indicator lights in their peripheral vision without the user having to refocus their eyes too much.

Fig. 9 illustrates an exemplary exploded view of a mask similar to that shown in fig. 1. Fig. 10-17 show an alternative embodiment of a mask (similar to the mask of fig. 1) in which the display indicators are located at different positions about the perimeter of the mask's viewport. Different locations may be selected based on, for example, the use of the mask, the wearer of the mask, the shape of the viewport, the number of display indicators, etc., and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various locations of display indicators on the mask frame are included within the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., fig. 1 and 10-17 provide merely illustrative examples, and are not limiting, of the locations of the display indicators).

It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that any kind of mask having a viewport may employ the disclosed display indicators (e.g., the disclosed embodiments are not limited to SCBA or full facemask). Thus, for example, an eye protection device (e.g., goggles) having a frame near a transparent viewport may also have similar display indicators integrated into the frame (e.g., mounted externally to the frame near the perimeter of the viewport). Regardless of the mask configuration, having a display indicator mounted externally near the perimeter of the viewport should provide improved viewing of the mask (as compared to conventional internal HUDs) and improved wearer comfort (by emptying the space inside the mask), while also allowing the dual-sided display indicator to be more easily seen by external team members.

While various embodiments in accordance with the principles disclosed herein have been shown and described above, modifications thereof can be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and teachings of the disclosure. The embodiments described herein are merely representative and are not intended to be limiting. Many variations, combinations, and modifications are possible and are within the scope of the disclosure. Alternative embodiments formed by combining, integrating, and/or omitting features of the embodiment(s) are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above, but is only limited by the claims which follow, that scope including all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each and every claim is incorporated into this specification as a further disclosure, and a claim is an embodiment(s) of the invention(s). Moreover, any advantages and features described above may be associated with particular embodiments, but the application of such issued claims should not be limited to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the above advantages or having any or all of the above features.

Further, paragraph headings, as used herein, are provided in line with the opinion according to 37 c.f.r. 1.77, or provide organizational cues. These headings should not limit or characterize the invention(s) set forth in any claims that may be entitled to such disclosure. In particular and by way of example, although a title may refer to a "technical field," the claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this title to describe the so-called field. Furthermore, the description of technology in the "background" should not be construed as an admission that certain technology is prior art to any invention(s) in the present disclosure. The "summary" should not be considered a limiting feature of the invention(s) set forth in the issued claims. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to "the invention" in the singular should not be used to indicate that there is only a single point of novelty in this disclosure. Inventions may be set forth according to the limitations of the various claims granted based on this disclosure, and thus such claims define the invention(s) thus protected and their equivalents. In all cases, the scope of the claims should be considered based on their own advantages in accordance with the present disclosure, and should not be limited by the headings set forth herein.

The use of broader terms (e.g., including, comprising, and having) should be understood to provide support for narrower terms (e.g., consisting of … …, consisting essentially of … …, and consisting essentially of … …). The use of the terms "optionally," "may," etc. with respect to any element of an embodiment means that the element is not necessary, or alternatively the element is necessary, both alternatives being described within the scope of the embodiment(s). Additionally, references to examples are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be exclusive.

While several embodiments have been provided in the present disclosure, it should be understood that the disclosed systems and methods may be embodied in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The present examples are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. For example, various elements or components may be combined or integrated in another system or certain features may be omitted, or not implemented. The logic flows for the methods do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. Other steps may be provided, or steps may be eliminated, from the described flows/methods, and other components may be added to, or removed from, the described apparatus/systems. Accordingly, other embodiments may be within the scope of the following claims.

In addition, techniques, systems, subsystems, and methods described and illustrated in the various embodiments as discrete or separate may be combined or integrated with other systems, modules, techniques, or methods without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Other items shown or described as directly coupled or connected to each other may be indirectly coupled or connected through some interface, device, or intermediate component, whether electrically or mechanically, or otherwise. Other examples of changes, substitutions, and alterations are ascertainable by one skilled in the art and could be made without departing from the spirit and scope disclosed herein.

Claims (9)

1. A mask (100) comprising:

a transparent viewport (110) operable to allow a wearer to see outside the mask (100), the viewport having a frame (105) located about a perimeter of the viewport (110); and

one or more information display indicators (120), each information display indicator operable to display information relating to a personal safety device of a user;

wherein:

the viewport (110) has a field of view; and is

The one or more display indicators (120) are integrated into the frame (105) outside the viewport (110) and located near a periphery of the field of view of the viewport (110), wherein the one or more information display indicators (120) are permanently affixed to the frame (105),

wherein at least one of the one or more display indicators (120) comprises two faces, wherein a first face (127) is angled inwardly for effective viewing by a mask wearer and a second face (128) is angled outwardly to provide viewing capability to a person outside the mask; and

wherein the one or more display indicators (120) are located at least 90 mm from the wearer's eye and no more than 1 cm from the frame or viewport.

2. The mask of claim 1, wherein externally integrating the one or more display indicators (120) in the frame (105) results in minimal impact on the field of view of the viewport (110).

3. The mask of claim 1, wherein each display indicator of the at least one display indicator (120) having two faces is operable to illuminate to provide a status update such that illumination of each display indicator of the at least one display indicator (120) having two faces simultaneously illuminates both faces (127, 128).

4. The mask of claim 3, wherein each of the at least one display indicators (120) having two faces comprises a single LED operable to illuminate both the first face (127) and the second face (128).

5. The mask of claim 1, wherein the one or more information display indicators (120) comprise a plurality of display indicators, each associated with different information about the personal safety device and each comprising a different color of light.

6. The mask of claim 5, wherein at least two of the plurality of display indicators (120) are located in an array (125); wherein at least one of the plurality of display indicators (120) comprises two faces, wherein a first face (127) is inclined inwardly towards the viewing area (110) and a second face (128) is inclined outwardly; and wherein at least one of the plurality of display indicators (120) has only a single face that is angled inwardly toward the viewport (110).

7. The mask of claim 1, wherein external integration of the one or more display indicators (120) provides improved focus for viewing by the wearer.

8. The mask of claim 1, wherein the one or more display indicators (120) comprise wiring and circuitry, wherein the wiring and circuitry of the one or more display indicators are located inside the frame (105).

9. The mask of claim 1, wherein the one or more display indicators (120) are waterproof and a seal is positioned to prevent water from entering the frame (105) at a location where the one or more display indicators (120) are integrated into the frame (105).

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